Read before You Go! The Truth about Traveling to Sint Maarten post Hurricane in 2018
The two nations island Sint Maarten/St. Martin took quite a big hit last year by hurricane Irma. I traveled there this year in July to see for myself how does that effected the tourism industry and gave my part in helping the island recover.
Is the damage significantly noticeable during your trip? 100% YES! Are the recovery effective and will you enjoy the island still? That really depends on how you feel about the below points.
Truth no. 1 - Most big resorts are still shut down. The Dutch side of the island was hit more than the French side due to its location. Dutch side is also where most high-rise and low-rise hotels are located. Most major hotels suffered great damage so expect the stay in your favorite hotel brand on this island to be impossible at this time, and instead check out other local alternatives! (Ex: Oyster Bay Beach Hotel, Holland Beach House, Divi Little Bay are all open and welcoming guests!)
Truth no. 2 - Do you hate seeing homeless dogs? If so, don't torture yourself and stay away from this two-island country. I drove during my stay, which allowed more candid color on the life here. In a short period of 4 days, i have seen an upward of 40 homeless dogs along the narrow side of highway trying to not get hit by rigorous passing vehicles. In one case, a dog was hit and died! Laying on the side of the highway and left to die! I gotta be honest, I cannot enjoy vacationing at a place with misfortune of animals on display as a norm.
Truth no. 3 - If you are uncomfortable driving in a new place where infrastructure is not well developed, do not try it in Sint Maarten! The island is mountainous; the roads are on the mountains; there are no lights after dark; and worst of all- other drivers will rush you to speed up by tailgating very closely. Do yourself a favor and really think about this one through.
Truth no. 4 - If you can ignore the above-mentioned points, you will still have lots of fun. Many casinos, shops are open for business. An adrenaline trap - Loterie Farm is open with pool parties on Sunday and you can experience their famous ziplines despite the highest drop is still being repaired.
I hope the above information on my most recent visit can be helpful to your vacation planning.